Aortic leaflet repair using shock wave applicators

ABSTRACT

Described herein are shock wave devices and methods for the treatment of calcified heart valves. One variation of a shock wave device may comprise an elongated flexible tube carried by a sheath. The tube may have a fluid input end, which may be located near a proximal end of the sheath. The tube may include a loop portion. The loop portion may be configured to be at least partially accommodated within a cusp of the heart valve. The tube may be fillable with a conductive fluid. In some variations, the shock wave device may include an array of electrode pairs associated with a plurality of wires positioned within the loop portion of a tube. The electrode pairs may be electrically connectable to a voltage source and configured to generate shock waves in the conductive fluid in response to voltage pulses.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. Ser. No. 15/725,161, filed Oct. 4, 2017 which in turn claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/405,002, filed Oct. 6, 2016, both of which are incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

Aortic valve stenosis results in the narrowing of the aortic valve. Aortic valve stenosis may be exacerbated by a congenital defect where the aortic valve has one leaflet (unicuspid) or two leaflets (bicuspid) instead of three leaflets. In many cases, the narrowing of the aortic valve is the result of aortic valve calcification, where calcified plaque accumulates on the leaflets and/or annulus of the aortic valve. For example, calcium plaques deposited on the cusps of the leaflets may stiffen the leaflets, thereby narrowing the valve opening and interfering with efficient blood flow across the aortic valve.

Although research is underway in the development of a replacement aortic valve, one may prefer to soften the leaflets by modifying (e.g., reducing) or cracking the calcium deposits on the native valve instead of replacing it with an artificial valve. Accordingly, improved methods of softening a calcified aortic valve may be desirable.

BRIEF SUMMARY

Described herein are shock wave devices and methods for the treatment of calcified heart valves. The application of shock waves to a calcified region of a valve may help to crack and/or break the calcium deposits, thereby softening and/or loosening and/or removing calcium deposits that stiffen the mechanical properties of the valve. Softening and/or loosening and/or removing calcium deposits may allow the valve to regain at least a portion of its normal function. One embodiment of a shock wave device may comprise an elongated flexible tube carried by a sheath. The tube may have a fluid input end as well as fluid output end, which may be located near a proximal end of the sheath. The tube may include a loop portion located near a distal end of the sheath. The loop portion may be configured to be at least partially accommodated within a cusp of the heart valve. The tube may be fillable with a conductive fluid via the fluid input end of the tube. In some variations, the shock wave device may include an array of electrode pairs associated with a plurality of wires positioned within the loop portion of a tube. The electrode pairs may be electrically connectable to a voltage source and configured to generate shock waves in the conductive fluid in response to voltage pulses. Shock wave devices comprising at least two elongated flexible tubes and one or more electrode pairs may be used for treating unicuspid, bicuspid and/or tricuspid valves.

Methods for delivering shock waves to treat calcified lesions of a heart valve may comprise introducing a shock wave device into a patient's vasculature. The shock wave device may comprise an elongated flexible tube carried by a sheath. The tube may have a fluid input end. The fluid input end of the tube may be located near a proximal end of the sheath. The tube may include a loop portion located near a distal end of the sheath. The loop portion of the tube may be configured to be at least partially accommodated within a cusp of the heart valve. The tube may be fillable with a conductive fluid via the fluid input end of the tube. The shock wave device may comprise an array of electrode pairs associated with a plurality of wires positioned within the loop portion. The electrode pairs may be electrically connectable to a voltage source and configured to generate shock waves in the conductive fluid in response to voltage pulses. Methods for delivering shock waves to treat calcified lesions of a heart valve may further comprise advancing the shock wave device within the vasculature such that the loop portion of the tube is at least partially accommodated with a cusp of the heart valve; providing the tube of the shock wave device with conductive fluid; and activating the voltage source to apply a shock waves to treat the calcified lesions.

Other devices and methods that may be used to crack and/or break calcified deposits in an aortic valve (e.g., as part of a valvuloplasty procedure) are described in co-pending U.S. Pat. Pub. No. 2014/0046353 filed Aug. 8, 2013 (U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/962,315); U.S. Pat. Pub. No. 2011/0295227 filed Aug. 10, 2011 (U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/207,381, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,044,619), U.S. Pat. Pub. No. 2013/0116714 filed Nov. 8, 2011 (U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/291,875, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,574,247), U.S. Pat. Pub. No. 2014/0163592 filed Aug. 1, 2013 (U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/957,276, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,220,521 issued Dec. 29, 2015), which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

One variation for delivering shock waves to treat calcified lesions in a heart valve (e.g., a heart valve having a plurality of cusps each having a concave portion) may comprise an elongated flexible tube carried by a sheath. The tube may have a fluid input end, which may be located near a proximal end of the sheath. The tube may include a loop portion located near a distal end of the sheath. The loop portion may be configured to be at least partially accommodated within a cusp of the heart valve. The tube may be fillable with a conductive fluid via the fluid input end of the tube and subsequently purge used conductive fluid through the fluid output tube located on the sheath. The device may further comprise an elongated flexible support wire disposed within the tube and at least two insulated wires supported by the elongated flexible support wire. At least two insulated wires may be coiled around the flexible support wire. The device may further comprise at least two electrode pairs included in at least two insulated wires positioned within the loop portion. Each of the electrode pairs may comprise a plurality of spark-generating regions (or arc-generating regions) formed within interleaved portions of two insulated wires of the at least two insulated wires. The arc-generating regions are devoid of insulation. At least two electrode pairs may be electrically connectable to a voltage source and configured to generate shock waves in the conductive fluid in response to voltage pulses.

Any of the devices described herein may further comprise a plurality of spacers configured to space the array of electrode pairs away from the inner wall of the tube; a marker disposed in the loop portion of the tube; a fluid source, and a fluid pump. The fluid pump may be configured to deliver fluid from the fluid source to the fluid input end of the tube as well as remove fluid from the tube. To maintain the maximum shockwave output, it may be desirable to remove debris and air bubbles from the tube and replenish the tube with fresh conductive fluid. A pressure relief valve may be attached to the fluid output end so the pump can deliver the conductive fluid at a constant pressure. In some example, a pressure regulator may be attached at the fluid input end. Optionally, the device may further comprise at least one additional elongated flexible tube carried by the sheath, and a central anchor extending between and beyond the loop portions of the tubes and configured to pass through the leaflets of the heart valves and into the ventricle to stabilize the position of the sheath.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A schematically depicts one variation of a shock wave device for the treatment of calcified lesions in a heart valve.

FIG. 1B schematically depicts exemplary elongated flexible tubes carried by a sheath.

FIG. 1C depicts a partial, enlarged view of an exemplary elongated flexible tube of a shock wave device.

FIG. 2 depicts a schematic top view of elongated flexible tubes deployed in a heart valve.

FIG. 3A depicts a schematic view of an exemplary elongated flexible tube and an array of electrode pairs associated with a plurality of wires disposed within the flexible tube.

FIG. 3B depicts various views of an exemplary flexible tube and enlarged view of exemplary interleaved wire portions carrying the electrode pairs.

FIG. 3C depicts an enlarged view of an exemplary interleaved wire portion supported by a flexible support wire.

FIG. 3D depicts a schematic view of two neighboring interleaved wire portions in a coiled configuration and their enlarged view.

FIG. 3E depicts a schematic view of two neighboring interleaved wire portions with the coils straightened and their enlarged view.

FIG. 4 depicts a prospective view of one variation of a self-expanding anchor that may be used with a shock wave device.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart representation of a method for delivering shock waves to treat calcified lesions in a heart valve.

FIG. 6 depicts a schematic view of another exemplary elongated flexible tube and an array of electrode pairs associated with a plurality of wires disposed within the flexible tube.

FIG. 7 depicts a schematic view of another exemplary elongated flexible tube and an array of electrode pairs associated with a plurality of wires disposed within the flexible tube.

FIG. 8 depicts a schematic view of another exemplary elongated flexible tube and an array of electrode pairs associated with a plurality of wires disposed within the flexible tube.

FIG. 9A depicts a step of an exemplary method for treating a calcified heart valve using a shock wave device.

FIG. 9B depicts another step of the exemplary method for treating a calcified heart valve using a shock wave device.

FIG. 9C depicts another step of the exemplary method for treating a calcified heart valve using a shock wave device.

FIG. 9D depicts another step of the exemplary method for treating a calcified heart valve using a shock wave device.

FIG. 9E depicts another step of the exemplary method for treating a calcified heart valve using a shock wave device.

FIG. 10 depicts a prospective view of one variation of a self-expanding anchor that may be used with a shock wave device.

FIG. 11A schematically depicts another exemplary variation of a shock wave device for the treatment of calcified lesions in a heart valve.

FIG. 11B schematically depicts another exemplary variation of a shock wave device for the treatment of calcified lesions in a heart valve.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1A schematically depicts one variation of a shock wave device 100 for the treatment of calcified lesions in a heart valve. FIG. 1B schematically depicts exemplary elongated flexible tubes 110A-C carried by a sheath 108. The shock wave device 100 may comprise a first elongated flexible tube 110A, a second elongated flexible tube 110B, and a third elongated flexible tube 110C. As illustrated in FIGS. 1A-1B, the elongated flexible tubes 110A-C may be carried by a sheath 108. At least part of the elongated flexible tubes 110A-C may be movably accommodated within the sheath 108. As illustrated in FIGS. 1A-1B, one or more of the elongated flexible tubes 110A-C may be extended beyond the distal end of the sheath 108 for treating calcified lesions in heart valves. In some variations, the sheath 108 may be coupled to a proximal handle 104. The sheath 108 may be introduced into the vasculature and advanced in a retrograde direction (e.g., via a femoral artery) to a heart valve. The sheath 108 and the proximal handle 104 are similar to those described in more detail in co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/962,315 filed Aug. 8, 2013 (U.S. Pat. Pub. No. 2014/0046353), which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. While three elongated flexible tubes 110A-C are illustrated in FIGS. 1A-1B, it is appreciated that the shock wave device 100 may comprise any other numbers of elongated flexible tubes (e.g., one or two tubes).

FIG. 1C depicts a partial, enlarged view of an exemplary flexible tube. As shown in FIG. 1C, in some variations, an elongated flexible tube 110 (e.g., 110A-C) may comprise a fluid input end 152 and a fluid output end 154. The fluid input end 152 and the fluid output end 154 may be located near a proximal end of the sheath 108. A fluid may be introduced via the fluid input end 152 and discharged via the fluid output end 154, or vice versa. For example, the fluid may be introduced to the elongated flexible tube 110 by the fluid pump and fluid source 106. The fluid pump and fluid source 106 may fill the elongated flexible tube 110 (e.g., 110A-C) with a fluid such as saline or saline/contrast mixture. The fluid may be electrically conductive to support the generation of the shock waves. In some variations, the elongated flexible tube 110 may have one fluid end, through which the fluid may be introduced to the tube and discharged from the tube. For example, the fluid input end 152 and the fluid output end 154 may form one opening of the elongated flexible tube 110.

An elongated flexible tube 110 (e.g., tubes 110A-C) may comprise an inner wall and an outer wall. In some variations, the inner wall of the elongated flexible tube 110 may be heat treated such that the surface of the inner wall is smoother than a surface that is not heat-treated. A smoother inner wall may reduce the absorption of the shock wave generated by an electrode pair and therefore enhance the efficiency of delivering the shock wave to treat the calcium deposits in a heart valve. Moreover, a smoother surface may also reduce the resistance of circulating the fluid inside the elongated flexible tube 110. A smoother surface may also reduce air bubble forming and trapping, which can diminish the shock wave sonic output. A hydrophilic coating may eliminate or reduce this problem.

In some variations, the elongated flexible tube 110 may have a ring-shaped cross-section. For example, the inner wall of the elongated flexible tube 110 may form an inner cylinder to accommodate the wires, supporting wires, interleaved wire portions carrying electrode pairs, and the fluid. As an example, the inner diameter of the elongated flexible tube 110 may be ranging from about 0.04 inch to 0.08 inch; and the outer diameter of the elongated flexible tube 110 may be ranging from about 0.044 inch and about 0.088 inch; and the thickness of the wall of the elongated flexible tube 110 may be in the range of about 0.002 inch and about 0.02 inch. While increasing the wall thickness can improve strength, increasing the thickness of the wall of the elongated flexible tube 110 may also increase the absorption of energy generated by an electrode pair, thereby reducing the acoustic pressure and shear stress (induced by the acoustic pressure pulse) that are applied to the calcified deposits along the surface of cusps of a heart valve. It is appreciated that the elongated flexible tube 110 can have any desired cross-sectional shape and any desired dimensions for accommodate the components (e.g., wires, supporting wires, interleaved wire portions carrying electrode pairs, and the fluid) of a shock wave device for delivering the shock wave to treat the calcium deposits in a heart valve. In some variations, the material of the elongated flexible tube 110 may include nylon, rubber, plastic, aromatic polyurethane, and/or other materials having similar characteristics.

As illustrated in FIGS. 1A-1B, in some variations, an elongated flexible tube 110 (e.g., 110A-C) may comprise a loop portion. The loop portion may be located near a distal end of the sheath 108. In some variations, the loop portion may comprise a horseshoe-shaped loop such that the two ends of the loop portion are neighboring to each other. In some variations, the loop portion may comprise a J-shaped loop (e.g., as shown in FIG. 6). The loop portion may be configured to be at least partially accommodated within a cusp of a heart valve to enable the shock waves to be delivered for softening and/or loosening and/or removing calcium deposits. One advantage of the tube design is that the electrode pairs can be positioned in closer proximity to a cusp of a heart valve than of some prior art balloon designs wherein the electrodes are mounted close to the center sheath and away from the balloon wall. As a result, the flexible tube comprising a loop portion may enhance the delivering of the shock wave to the calcium deposits. The treatment of calcium deposits in a heart valve is described in more detail below in connection with FIG. 2.

As shown in FIGS. 1A-1C, the loop portion of an elongated flexible tube 110 may comprise a plurality of wires and an array of interleaved wire portions carrying electrode pairs. For example, the elongated flexible tube 110A comprises a first wire 114, a first interleaved wire portion 116, a second wire 118, a second interleaved wire portion 120, a third wire 122, a third interleaved wire portion 124, and a fourth wire 126. An interleaved wire portion may comprise a plurality (e.g., 2) of portions of wires configured in an interleaved manner. For example, an interleaved wire portion may include a portion of a wire coiled with a portion of another wire. In some variations, the wires and interleaved wire portions are configured in series. For example, the first wire 114 may be electrically coupled to a positive terminal of a voltage source such as a high voltage pulse generator 102. The first interleaved wire portion 116 may comprise a portion of the first wire 114 interleaved with a first portion of the second wire 118. The first wire 114 may have an electrical voltage or potential that is more positive than the second wire 118. Similarly, the second interleaved wire portion 120 may comprise a second portion of the second wire 118 interleaved with a first portion of the third wire 122. The second wire 118 may have an electrical voltage or potential that is more positive than that of the third wire 122. And the third interleaved wire portion 124 may comprise a second portion of the third wire 122 and a portion of the fourth wire 126. The third wire 122 may have an electrical voltage or potential that is more positive than that of the fourth wire 126. The fourth wire 126 may be electrically coupled to a negative terminal of a voltage source such as a high voltage pulse generator 102. While FIGS. 1A-1B illustrate three interleaved wire portions 116, 120, and 124, it is appreciated that an elongated flexible tube 110 may comprise any number of interleaved wire portions (e.g., two, three, four, five, six) in any desired configurations to deliver shock waves. For example, the elongated flexible tube 110A may comprises two interleaved wire portions (e.g., the first interleaved wire portion 116 and the second interleaved wire portion 120) coupled in series, but may not comprise the third interleaved wire portion 124 and the fourth wire 126. In this configuration, the third wire 122 may be electrically coupled to the negative terminal of a voltage source such as a high voltage pulse generator 102. In some variations, one or more interleaved wire portions may also be electrically coupled in parallel.

As will be discussed below with reference to FIGS. 3A-E, in the illustrated embodiment, each interleaved wire portion includes at least one pair of electrodes. Each electrode is defined by removing a small region of insulation from the wire. When a high voltage is delivered to the wires surrounded by a conductive fluid, an electrohydraulic discharge generates plasma that generates a shock wave at the arc-generating region. A conductive-fluid-filled tube may be pressurized at 2 ATM to 6 ATM.

In some variations, the high voltage pulse generator 102 can generate high voltage pulses in the range of about 1 kV-6 kV peak to peak. In one variation, the high voltage pulse generator 102 generates a voltage of about 5.0 kV and delivers the voltage to a plurality of interleaved wire portions (e.g., the first interleaved wire portion 116, the second interleaved wire portion 120, and the third interleaved wire portion 124) carrying an array of electrode pairs. The array of electrode pairs can be configured to generate shock waves in the conductive fluid in response to the voltage pulses generated by the voltage pulse generator 102, as described in more detail below.

As shown in FIGS. 1A-1C, in some variations, the wires and interleaved wire portions may be supported by support wire 160 disposed within the elongated flexible tube 110. The support wire 160 may be elongated and flexible. In some variations, the support wire 160 is non-conductive or metal with high dielectric insulator. Material of the support wire 160 can be polyimide coated Nitinol wire or similar property material. The support wire 160 may be in contact with the wires (e.g., the first wire 114, the second wire 118, the third wire 122, and the fourth wire 126) and the plurality of interleaved wire portions (e.g., the first, second, and third interleaved wire portions 116, 120, and 124). In one variation, the wires (e.g., 114, 118, 122, and 126) and the interleaved wire portions (e.g., 116, 120, and 124) may wrap around the support wire 160. In some variations, the support wire 160 extends substantially through the elongated flexible tube 110. One variation of the support wire 160 may comprise one or more layers of materials. For example, as shown in FIG. 1C, the outer layer 171 of the support wire 160 may comprise an electrical insulator material such as rubber, plastic, ceramics, and/or other materials having similar characteristics. The inner layer 172 of the support wire 160 may comprise an electrical conductor such as metal, alloy, nitinol, stainless steel, iron, copper, aluminum, lead, and/or other materials having similar characteristics. In some variations, the inner layer 172 may comprise memory materials such as memory alloys to remember the shape of the support wire 160 to reduce the burden of the practitioner to adjust the shape of the elongated flexible tube 110 each time it is inserted into the heart valve of the same patient.

FIG. 2 depicts a schematic top view of a shock wave device deployed in a heart valve 200. As described, in some variations, the shock wave device may comprise a plurality of elongated flexible tubes. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, the shock wave device comprises a first elongated flexible tube 210A, a second elongated flexible tube 210B, and a third elongated flexible tube 210C. The elongated flexible tubes 210A-C may each comprise two or more interleaved wire portions carrying electrode pairs. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, the elongated flexible tube 210A comprises interleaved wire portions 212, 214, and 216; the elongated flexible tube 210B comprises interleaved wire portions 222, 224, and 226; and the elongated flexible tube 210C comprises interleaved wire portions 232, 234, and 236. Each of the interleaved wire portions may carry a plurality of electrode pairs to generate shock waves.

In some variations, the elongated flexible tubes 210A-C may further comprise markers 252, 254, and 256, respectively. A marker may be disposed in the loop portion of the elongated flexible tube 210. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, the marker 252 is co-axially coupled to a support wire 253 supporting the interleaved wire portions 212, 214, and 216. Markers 254 and 256 may be similarly disposed. In some variations, markers 252, 254, and 256 may be radiopaque to allow a practitioner to identify the location, position, and/or orientation of the shock wave device as it is inserted through the vasculature of a patient. For example, the markers 252, 254, and 256 may be disposed proximal to the middle parts of the loop portions of elongated flexible tubes 210A-C, respectively. In some variations, one or more markers 252, 254, and 256 may be disposed proximal to one of the interleaved wire portions of elongated flexible tubes 210A-C, or disposed at any other location along the length of the elongated flexible tubes 210A-C. The markers 252, 254, and 256 may enable the practitioner to deploy the elongated flexible tubes 210A-C to a proper location. For example, using the markers 252, 254, and 256, the elongated flexible tubes 210A-C may be deployed to a location within concaved portion and/or sinus 242, 244, and 246 of the respective cusp of the heart valve 200. In some variations, the location of the elongated flexible tubes 210A-C may be determined based on fluoroscopy and/or ultrasound using the markers 252, 254, and 256. As a result, a space may be maintained between the tubes and the wall of the heart valve 200 to prevent obstruction of the openings to the coronary arteries.

As illustrated in FIG. 2, the interleaved wire portions (e.g., interleaved wire portions 212, 214, and 216) may be electrically coupled in series to a voltage source such as a high voltage pulse generator 102. After a practitioner confirms that the elongated flexible tubes 210A-C are located in their pre-determined or desired positions, one or more of the electrode pairs carried by the interleaved wire portions may be activated to produce shock waves. The location of the elongated flexible tubes 210A-C and their electrode pairs may be monitored throughout the treatment procedure as needed to confirm that the electrode pairs are in close proximity to and/or in contact with calcified regions of the wall of the heart valve 200.

As described in more detail below, the electrode pairs may generate shock waves, which apply acoustic pulses of energy that propagate through the conductive fluid filled in the elongated flexible tubes 210A-C. The acoustic pulses of energy generated from the electrode pairs (e.g., electrode pairs carried the by interleaved wire portions 214, 216, 222, 226, 232, and 236) may propagate through the conductive fluid to apply acoustic pressure and shear stress on calcified deposits along the surface of the cusp. As described, in some variations, the thickness of the wall of an elongated flexible tube (e.g., 210A-C) may affect the absorption of the energy generated by an electrode pair. For example, increasing the thickness of the wall of the elongated flexible tube 110 may increase the absorption of energy generated by an electrode pair, thereby reducing the acoustic pressure (and the induced stress associated with it) that is available to be applied to the calcified deposits along the surface of cusps of a heart valve. The thickness of the wall of the elongated flexible tube 110 may range from, for example, about 0.002 inch to 0.02 inch. In some variations, the surface of the elongated flexible tubes 210A-C may be heat treated such that it may be smoother than a surface that is not heat-treated. A smooth surface of elongated flexible tubes 210A-C reduces or eliminates cavities or roughness to allow the pulses of energy to propagate in all directions. Moreover, as a result of the smooth surface, some of the energy may be reflected and redirected to the calcified deposits, thereby enhancing the efficacy of the treatment. In some variations, the thickness of the wall of an elongated flexible tube (e.g., 210A-C) may be reduced when the surface of the wall is heat treated. A thinner wall may reduce the absorption of energy generated by an electrode pair. A thinner wall may also reduce the reflection of energy generated by an electrode pair. Thus, a thinner wall of an elongated flexible tube (e.g., 210A-C) may increase the pressure or stress that is available to be applied to the calcified deposits along the surface of cusps of a heart valve, thereby enhances the efficacy of the treatment. A heat treated surface may also reduce the absorption of the pulses of energy and thus reduce the stress applied on the elongated flexible tubes 210A-C, thereby enhancing the life time of the tubes.

As shown in FIG. 2, a plurality of shock waves may be applied to the cusps and/or other valve structures of the heart valve 200. In some variations, the location and/or orientation of the elongated flexible tubes 210A-C may be varied so that the energy from the shock waves may be positioned on different areas of a cusp. For example, shock wave treatment of a calcified cusp may comprise initiating shock waves from the electrode pairs carried by the interleaved wire portions 214 and 216 of elongated flexible tube 210A at a first location (which may, for example, apply mechanical forces to calcified deposits along a first edge of the cusp), then moving the elongated flexible tube 210A and/or the interleaved wire portions 214 and 216 to a second location, and then initiating shock waves from the electrode pairs carried by the interleaved wire portions 214 and 216 at the second location (which may, for example, apply the mechanical forces to calcified deposits along the second edge of the cusp). In some variations, the elongated flexible tubes 210A-C may accommodate multiple interleaved wire portions carrying electrode pairs (e.g., 3) that can be positioned to treat calcified deposits along multiple edges of the cusp in series or in parallel configurations, therefore reducing or eliminating the requirement of moving the elongated flexible tubes 210A-C and/or their respective electrode pairs. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, the shock waves can be generated from electrode pairs carried by interleaved wire portions 212, 214, and 216 electrically coupled in series to apply mechanical forces to calcified deposits along multiple (e.g., three) edges of the cusp. In some variations, the location and or/orientation of the electrode pairs inside the elongated flexible tubes 210 A-C may be varied so that the acoustic energy of the emitted shock waves may coherently interfere at a particular location causing a higher energy wave than the original emitted pulse. This can be achieved by geometrically aligning the electrode pairs and firing them at the same time so that the waves can create a focal region at a particular location near or at the calcified valve. Efficacy of the treatment may be subsequently evaluated based on imaging techniques (e.g., fluoroscopy and/or ultrasound) and/or physiological parameters. Examples of techniques that may be used to evaluate the efficacy of the treatment may include, but are not limited to, visual observation by ultrasound of leaflet activity (e.g., leaflet opening and closing) when the elongated flexible tubes 210A-C are withdrawn from the heart valve 200, measuring ejection fraction, Duke Activity Status Index (DASI), peak velocity, peak gradient, aortic valve area (AVA), Doppler velocity, etc. Optionally, after a desired amount of the calcium deposits have been cracked and/or loosened, and/or the leaflets of the heart valve have been softened, a transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) procedure may be performed. Cracking and/or breaking the calcium deposits on a heart valve may help to improve the outcome of a subsequent TAVI procedure. In some variations, a single cusp of the heart valve 200 may be treated at a time, while in other variations, two or more cusps of a valve may be treated in parallel. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 2, three cusps of the heart valve 200 may be treated in parallel with the three elongated flexible tubes 210A-C. Alternatively, three cusps of the heart valve 200 may be treated one after another using a single elongated flexible tube of a shock wave device. For people with bicuspid aortic valves, a shock wave device having two elongated flexible tubes may be used to treat the two cusps of the heart valve.

FIG. 3A depicts a schematic view of an exemplary flexible tube 300 and an array of electrode pairs associated with a plurality of wires disposed within the flexible tube 300. As shown in FIG. 3A, an elongated flexible tube 310 may comprise a fluid input end 312, a fluid output end 314, a support wire 320, a first wire 340, a first interleaved wire portion 338, a second wire 336, a second interleaved wire portion 334, a third wire 332, a third interleaved wire portion 330, and a fourth wire 328. One variation of the wires 340, 336, and 332 may comprise a first layer surrounded by a second layer. The first layer may comprise conductive materials such as metal (e.g., copper), alloy, and/or other materials that are electrically conductive. The second layer may comprise insulator materials such as rubber, plastics, and/or other materials that are not electrically conductive. Similar to those described above, the first interleaved wire portion 338 may comprise a portion of the first wire 340 interleaved with a first portion of the second wire 336. The first wire 340 may be electrically coupled to a positive terminal of a voltage source and may have an electrical voltage or potential that is more positive than the second wire 336. Similarly, the second interleaved wire portion 334 may comprise a second portion of the second wire 336 interleaved with a first portion of the third wire 332. The second wire 336 may have an electrical voltage or potential that is more positive than that of the third wire 332. And the third interleaved wire portion 330 may comprise a second portion of the third wire 332 and a portion of the fourth wire 328. The third wire 332 may have an electrical voltage or potential that is more positive than that of the fourth wire 328. The fourth wire 328 may be electrically coupled to a negative terminal of a voltage source such as a high voltage pulse generator 102. It is appreciated that while in the above variation, the electrical voltage or potential decreases in the order of the first wire 340, the second wire 336, the third wire 332, and the fourth wire 328, the electrical voltage or potential of these wires may increase in the other variations (e.g., the fourth wire 328 has a higher voltage or potential than the third wire 332, which has a higher voltage or potential than the second wire 336, and so forth).

As shown in FIG. 3A, in some variations, the portion of the first wire 340 interleaves with the first portion of the second wire 336 to form a first coil. The first coil may have a center axis that is common to the portion of the first wire 340 and the first portion of the second wire 336. Similar, the second portion of the second wire 336 interleaves with the first portion of the third wire 332 to form a second coil. The second coil may have a center axis that is common to the second portion of the second wire 336 and the first portion of the third wire 332. And the second portion of the third wire 332 interleaves with a portion of the fourth wire 328 to form a third coil. The third coil may have a center axis that is common to the second portion of the third wire 332 and the portion of the fourth wire 328.

As shown in FIG. 3A, in some variations, the coils may comprise two portions of two different wires interleaved to each other in a manner that two neighboring wire portions in the coils are substantially parallel to each other. The two neighboring wire portions may have different electrical voltage or potential. As described in more details below, in a coil, two neighboring wire portions may carry an electrode pair, which comprise one or more arc-generating regions to generate shock waves. The energy associated with the shock waves may vary depending on the distance between the arc-generating regions of the two neighboring wire portions. For example, the shock wave generated may carry an increased energy with a reducing distance between the arc-generating regions the two neighboring wire portions. In some variations, the distance may be reduced to a certain threshold, as discussed in more detail below. In some variations, the location and or/orientation of the arc-generating regions may be varied so that the acoustic energy of the emitted shock waves may coherently interfere at a particular location causing a higher energy wave than the original emitted pulse. This can be achieved by geometrically aligning the arc-generating regions and firing them at the same time so that the waves can create a focal region at a particular location near or at the calcified valve.

As illustrated in FIG. 3A, in some variations, the shock wave device may comprise a plurality of spacers 342A-C. The spacers 342A-C may be configured to space the array of electrode pairs 330, 334, and 338 away from the inner wall of the elongated flexible tube 310. As described, the electrode pairs carried by interleaved wire portions 330, 334, and 338 may generate shock waves. The shock waves may apply mechanical forces on the inner wall of the elongated flexible tube 310. Some of the energy may be absorbed by the inner wall, which causes mechanical forces or stresses to be applied to the inner wall. The mechanical forces or stresses may increase as the distance between the electrode pairs carried by interleaved wire portions 330, 334, and 338 and the inner wall of the elongate flexible tube 310 reduces. The spacers 342A-C can keep the interleaved wire portions 330, 334, and 338 away from being in contact with the inner wall of the elongated flexible tube 310 to reduce or minimize the forces or stresses applied to the inner wall. As a result, the spacers 342A-C may enhance the life time of the elongated flexible tube 310. In some variations, the spacers 342A-C may include ring-shaped spacers and/or any other shaped spacers (e.g., oval-shaped).

FIG. 3B depicts multiple views of an exemplary flexible tube and enlarged view of exemplary interleaved wire portions carrying electrode pairs. For example, FIG. 3B illustrates a front view 310A, side views 310B-C, and a top view 310D of the elongated flexible tube 310. FIG. 3B further depict enlarged views of exemplary interleaved wire portions 330, 334, and 338. FIG. 3C depicts an enlarged view of the interleaved wire portion 330 supported by a flexible support wire 320. As described, in some variations, an interleaved wire portion (e.g., interleaved wire portions 330, 334, and 338) may comprise two wire portions interleaved together to form a coil. The coil may comprise two portions of different wires interleaved to each other in a manner that two neighboring wire portions are substantially parallel to each other. In a coil, two neighboring wire portions may have different electrical voltages or potentials. In some variations, to generate shock waves, each of the two neighboring wire portions may comprise one or more arc-generating regions to form an electrode pair. For example, as shown in FIGS. 3B and 3C, the two neighboring portions of wires 328 and 332 in the interleaved wire portion 330 comprise one or more arc-generating regions 352A-C and 350, respectively. Similarly, the wire portions of interleaved wire portions 334 and 334 may also comprise one or more arc-generating regions. The neighboring arc-generating regions may form electrode pairs. For example, the arc-generating regions 350 and 352A-C form an electrode pair.

In some variations, the arc-generating regions may be devoid of insulation and may be configured to generate sparks (or plasma arcs) between two neighboring wire portions to convey the shock waves. As described, a wire (e.g., wire 328, 332, 336, and 340) may comprise a first layer that is electrically conductive and a second layer that is an electrical insulator. The first layer of a wire may be surrounded by the second layer. As shown in FIGS. 3B and 3C, in the arc-generating regions (e.g., regions 350 and 352A-C) of an electrode pair, the insulation of the wires is removed to expose the underlying electrically conductive layer. As described, in some variations, two neighboring wire portions in a coil may be configured to be substantially parallel to each other. In some variations, the arc-generating regions of two neighboring wire portions may be positioned to align with one another. For example, as shown in FIG. 3C, the arc-generating region 350 of the portion of wire 332 may be positioned to align with the arc-generating region 352A of the portion of wire 328. The alignment of arc-generating regions between two neighboring wire portions may improve the efficiency of spark generation (or plasma arc generation). For example, plasma arcs may be more easily generated between two closely positioned arc-generating regions. As described, in some variations, the distance between the two arc-generating regions may be reduced to a certain threshold associated with an optimum acoustic energy output. For example, in one variation of a single electrode pair system including two arc-generating regions, the distance between the two arc-generating regions may be reduced to about 0.2 mm (or about 0.008 inch). Further reducing the distance may reduce the acoustic energy output. In some variations where multiple electrode pairs in series are included in a shock wave device, the distance may be divided serially in several electrode gaps.

As shown in FIGS. 3B and 3C, in some variations, a wire portion that has a more positive electrical voltage or potential than the neighboring wire portion may comprise a smaller number of arc-generating regions. For example, in the interleaved wire portion 330, the portion of the wire 328 comprises at least two arc-generating regions 352A-C and the portion of the wire 332 comprises one arc-generating regions. As described above in connection with FIG. 3A, in one variation, in the interleaved wire portion 330, the portion of the wire 332 may have an electrical voltage or potential that is more positive than the portion of wire 328, and thus the portion of wire 332 may have a smaller number of arc-generating regions the portion of wire 328. As described in more detail below, the number of the arc-generating regions and/or the positions of the arc-generating regions may be configured to compensate spark-induced (or arc-induced) erosion of the insulation of one or both of the neighboring wire portions.

Similarly, as shown in FIG. 3B, in the interleaved wire portion 334, the portion of the wire 332 comprises at least two arc-generating regions and the portion of the wire 336 comprises one arc-generating regions. In the interleaved wire portion 334, the portion of the wire 336 may have an electrical voltage or potential that is more positive than the portion of the wire 332, and thus wire 336 may have a smaller number of arc-generating regions than the portion of wire 332. In the interleaved wire portion 338, the portion of the wire 336 comprises at least two arc-generating regions and the portion of the wire 340 comprises one arc-generating regions. In the interleaved wire portion 338, the portion of the wire 340 may have an electrical voltage or potential that is more positive than the portion of the wire 336, and thus the portion of the wire 340 may have a smaller number of arc-generating regions than the portion of wire 336.

FIG. 3D depicts a schematic view of two neighboring interleaved wire portions in a coiled configuration and their enlarged view. FIG. 3E depicts a schematic view of two neighboring interleaved wire portions with the coils straightened and their enlarged view. FIGS. 3D and 3E are described together. FIGS. 3D and 3E illustrate the interleaved wire portions 330 and 334. As described, the interleaved wire portion 330 may comprise a portion of the wire 328 interleaved (e.g., coiled) with a portion of wire 332. In one variation, the wire 328 may have a voltage or potential that is more negative than the wire 332. For example, the wire 328 may be electrically coupled to a negative terminal of a voltage source. In the interleaved wire portion 330, the portion of the wire 328 and the portion of the wire 332 may comprise one or more arc-generating regions configured to form an electrode pair. For example, in the interleaved wire portion 330, the portion of the wire 328 may include a plurality of arc-generating regions 352A-C and the portion of the wire 332 may include one arc-generating region 350. Arc-generating regions 350 and 352A-C form an electrode pair. As described, the arc-generating regions may be devoid of insulation for inducing electrical sparks (or plasma arcs) between the two arc-generating regions that have different voltages or potentials. For example, initially, plasma arcs may be generated between two neighboring arc-generating regions 350 and 352A, because the wire 328 has a voltage or potential that is more negative than the wire 332.

In some variations, plasma arcs may cause erosion of the insulation of the wires. Erosion may occur in the direction corresponding to the direction of increasing voltage or potential. For example, as shown in FIGS. 3D and 3E, in the portion of the wire 332 of interleaved wire portion 330, the voltage or potential may increase in the direction indicated by an arrow 351. Thus, the insulation erosion of the portion of the wire 332 may initiate from the arc-generating region 350 and propagate in the direction indicated by the arrow 351. In some variations, the arc-generating region in two neighboring wire portions may be positioned to compensate the arc-induced erosion of the insulation of one or more of the wire portions. For example, as shown in FIGS. 3D and 3E, in the interleaved wire portion 330, the arc-generating region 350 and the arc-generating region 352A may be positioned to align with each other to initiate the spark generation (or plasma arc generation). In the interleaved wire portion 330, one or more additional arc-generating regions 352B-C in the portion of wire 328 may be positioned corresponding to the erosion direction in the portion of the wire 332, such that as the insulation erosion of the portion of the wire 332 propagate in the direction indicated by the arrow 351, plasma arcs may be generated between the one or more addition arc-generating regions 352B-C and the eroded portion of the wire 332. It is appreciated that one or more additional arc-generating regions may be positioned corresponding to the erosion direction in the portion of the wire 332. Positioning the arc-generating regions in such a manner may increase the efficiency of spark/plasma arc generation, improve the consistency and continuity of the shock waves, and enhance the lifetime of the shock wave device.

In some variations, plasma arcs may cause erosion of the insulation of the wires. Erosion may occur in the direction corresponding to the direction of increasing voltage or potential. In order to reduce the bias of erosion, in some variations, a shock wave device with polarity switching may be used with a regular electrode configuration (similar to those described in co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/138,147, filed Apr. 25, 2016, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety) to even the directional erosion mentioned above. Thus, the insulation erosion of the portion of the wire 332, as shown in FIGS. 3D and 3E, may initiate from the arc-generating region 350 and propagate in the direction indicated by the arrow 351, and in the next pulse or subsequent number of pulses, may propagate in the direction opposite to that one in the arrow 351, allowing erosion to act evenly on both sides and preventing the electrode gap from continuing to wear in an even fashion (as described in more detail in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/138,147, filed Apr. 25, 2016).

As illustrated in FIGS. 3D and 3E, similarly, in the portion of the wire 336 of the interleaved wire portion 334, the voltage or potential increases in the direction indicated by an arrow 361. Thus, the insulation erosion of the portion of the wire 336 may initiate from the arc-generating region 360 and propagate in the direction indicated by the arrow 361. As described, the arc-generating regions in two neighboring wire portions may be positioned to compensate the arc-induced erosion of the insulation of one or more of the wire portions. For example, as shown in FIGS. 3D and 3E, in the interleaved wire portion 334, the arc-generating region 360 and the arc-generating region 362A may be positioned to align with each other to initiate the spark generation. In the interleaved wire portion 334, one or more additional arc-generating regions 362B-C in the portion of the wire 332 may be positioned corresponding to the erosion direction in the portion of the wire 336, such that plasma arcs may be generated between the one or more addition arc-generating regions 362B-C and the eroded portion of the wire 336. As discussed above, there may be any number (e.g., two, three, four, five, six) of electrode pairs carried by the interleaved wire portions within a single elongated flexible tube.

In some variations, the shock wave device may comprise a self-expanding anchor, which may be expanded automatically after the anchor is deployed. FIG. 4 depicts a prospective view of one variation of a self-expanding anchor that may be used with a shock wave device. As shown in FIG. 4, a shock wave device 400 may comprise a sheath 408, a plurality of elongated flexible tubes 410A-C, a shaft 406, and an anchor 407. The sheath 408 and plurality of elongated flexible tube 410A-C are similar to those described above. The anchor 407 may comprise a self-expanding scaffold 414. Optionally, the device 400 may comprise an atraumatic tip 420 located at the distal end of the shaft 406. The scaffold 414 may comprise one or more closed-form structures, such as lobes (or arms) 416. The arms 416 may be arranged in a radial symmetric configuration around the shaft 406, or in other variations, may be arranged in a non-symmetric configuration. The anchor 407 may comprise shape-memory material such as nickel-titanium alloy. In some variations, the anchor 407 may be a central anchor extending between and beyond the ends of the elongated flexible tubes 410A-C and configured to pass through the leaflets of the heart valves and into the ventricle to stabilize the position of the sheath 408. For example, the anchor 407 may be pushed through the valve orifice, expanded, and then pulled up against the heart valve leaflets to help further engage or contact the shock wave electrode pairs with the leaflets and/or cusps. The anchor 407 is similar to the anchor described in more detail in co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/940,029 filed Nov. 12, 2015 (U.S. Pat. App. Publication 2016/0135828), which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart representation of a method for delivering shock waves to treat calcified lesions in a heart valve. In some methods, such as is depicted in FIG. 5, a shock wave device may be introduced (502) into a patient's vasculature. The shock wave device may comprise one or more elongated flexible tubes (e.g., 3). In some variations, the elongated flexible tube may be carried by a sheath and may have a fluid input end. The fluid input end of the tube may be located near a proximal end of the sheath. The tube may include a loop portion located near a distal end of the sheath. The loop portion may be configured to be at least partially accommodated within a cusp of the heart valve. The tube may be fillable with a conductive fluid via the fluid input end of the tube. The shock wave device may further comprise an array of electrode pairs associated with a plurality of wires positioned within the loop portion. The electrode pairs may be electrically connectable to a voltage source and configured to generate shock waves in the conductive fluid in response to voltage pulses.

In some variations, the shock wave device may be advanced (504) within the vasculature such that the loop portion of the tube is at least partially accommodated with a cusp of the heart valve. The tube of the shock wave device may be provided (506) with conductive fluid. As described, the conductive fluid may be provided from a fluid source using a fluid pump. The voltage source may be activated (508) to apply shock waves to treat the calcified lesions of the heart valve. As described, using one or more elongated flexible tubes, one or more cusps of a heart valve may be treated in serial or in parallel.

FIG. 6 depicts a schematic view of another exemplary flexible tube 600 and an array of electrode pairs associated with a plurality of wires disposed within the flexible tube 600. As shown in FIG. 6, flexible tube 600 may comprise an elongated flexible tube 610 that includes a J-shaped curved portion 620 instead of a horseshoe-shaped loop portion of elongated flexible tube 310. The J-shaped curved portion 620 may be configured to be at least partially accommodated within a cusp of the heart valve.

In some variations, the elongated flexible tube 600 may comprise a fluid input end 312, a support wire 320, a first wire 340, a first interleaved wire portion 338, a second wire 336, a second interleaved wire portion 334, a third wire 332, a third interleaved wire portion 330, and a fourth wire 328. As depicted in FIG. 6, an array of three electrode pairs is disposed within the tube 610. The first electrode pair is associated with a portion of the first wire 340 and a portion of the second wire 336 interleaved in a coiled configuration, with the first wire having an electrical potential that is more positive than that of the second wire. The second electrode pair is associated with a portion of the second wire 336 and a portion of the third wire 332 interleaved in a coiled configuration, with the second wire having an electrical potential that is more positive than that of the third wire. The third electrode pair is associated with a portion of the third wire 332 and a portion of the fourth wire 328 interleaved in a coiled configuration, with the third wire having an electrical potential that is more positive than that of the fourth wire. These components are similar to those described above in connection with FIG. 3A and are thus not repeatedly described.

In some variations, the distal end of the elongated flexible tube 600 (e.g., end 614) may be sealed such that the conducive fluid flows in and out through the open proximal end of the elongated flexible tube 610 (e.g., fluid input end 312). Moreover, a wire associated with the electrode pair closest to the distal end of the tube is configured to extend at least from the sealed distal end of the tube to the open proximal end of the tube. As illustrated in FIG. 6, because the end 614 is sealed, a portion of the fourth wire 328 may be configured to return to the fluid input end 312 to electrically couple to a negative terminal of a voltage source such as a high voltage pulse generator 102. In other words, the fourth wire, which is associated with the electrode pair closest to the distal end of the tube, is configured to extend at least from the sealed distal end of the tube to the open proximal end of the tube. In some variations, the portion of the fourth wire 328 that returns to the fluid input end 312 may be configured to be positioned away from the electrode pairs of the interleaved wire portions (e.g., wire portions 330, 334, and 338) such that it does not interfere with the shock wave generated by the electrode pairs. For example, the portion of the fourth wire 328 that returns to the fluid input end 312 may be configured to be positioned in the opposite side from the side of the arc-generating regions of the interleaved wire portions 338, 334, and 330. In some variations, the elongated flexible tube 600 comprising a J-shaped curved portion may have a smaller dimension (e.g., length) than the elongated flexible tube 310 comprising a horseshoe-shaped loop portion. Smaller dimension may enable the shock wave device to be advanced more easily within the vasculature.

As discussed above, to maintain the maximum shockwave output, it would be desirable to remove debris and air bubbles from the tube and replenish the tube with fresh conductive fluid. For a tube having a horseshoe-shaped loop portion, a pressure relief valve may be attached to the fluid output end so the pump can deliver the conductive fluid at a constant pressure; additionally or alternatively, a pressure regulator may be attached at the fluid input end. For a tube having a sealed distal end such as a tube having a J-shaped loop portion (e.g., the elongated flexible tube 610) or a tube having a straight configuration (e.g., the elongated flexible tube 710), the elongated flexible tube may include an output port at the proximal end of the tube such that the fluid makes a U-turn through the separated lumen. In some examples, if the support wire is a nitinol tube, the nitinol tube can be used to flush the elongated flexible tube with fresh fluid, which enters the elongated flexible tube via the distal end of the nitinol tube. Suction may be applied at the output port at the proximal end of the elongated flexible tube to increase the outward flow of the fluid.

In some variations, when the elongated flexible tube 610 is being deployed via a sheath, the J-shaped curved portion is straightened out (i.e., the distal end of the elongated flexible tube is unfolded and is substantially straight against the wall of the sheath). During deployment, when the elongated flexible tube 610 is extended out of the sheath, the distal end of the elongated flexible tube is configured to curl into a loop-like shape to prevent the sealed distal end of the tube from lodging in the ostium of a coronary artery. FIG. 8 depicts a schematic view of the exemplary flexible tube 610 in an exemplary deployment configuration (i.e., after the tube is extended out of the sheath and before the tube is filled with a fluid). In this deployment configuration, the flexible tube 610 includes a loop portion located near a distal end of the sheath. In some variations, the shape of the loop portion may be set by the support wire. The loop portion of the elongated flexible tube 610 is configured to partially unfold when the tube is filled with a pressurized conductive fluid via the open proximal end of the tube. Thus, after the loop portion is deployed safely into the cusp, the tube 610 is inflated with the pressurized conductive fluid, which causes the loop portion to partially unfold and take on a U shape. In other words, during deployment, the curve of the distal end of the tube (depicted in FIG. 8) is more closed than the curve of the distal end in the operating configuration (depicted in FIG. 6).

FIGS. 9A-9D depict an exemplary method for treating a calcified heart valve (e.g., an aortic valve) using a shock wave device such as the one depicted in FIG. 8. Although the method depicted there uses a shock wave device comprising two elongated flexible tubes, it should be understood that this method may be performed using a shock wave device comprising one or three elongated flexible tube(s). FIG. 9A depicts a cross-sectional schematic view of an aortic valve with the left cusp 902 and the right cusp 904 (the posterior cusp is not shown for the sake of simplicity). The concave portion 903 of the left cusp 902 includes the opening 907 of the left coronary artery 906. The concave portion 905 of the right cusp 904 includes the opening 909 of the right coronary artery 908. A sheath 910 may be introduced into the vasculature and advanced in a retrograde direction (e.g., via a femoral artery) to the aortic valve. The sheath 910 (as well as any of components of the shock wave device) may comprise a radiopaque band or marker so that the location of the sheath may be determined using fluoroscopy. Alternatively or additionally, the location of the sheath and/or any shock wave devices may be determined using ultrasound. The distal end of the sheath 910 may be positioned close to but spaced from the cusps of the heart valve. A shock wave device 912 may then be advanced through the sheath 910 to the aortic valve. The shock wave device 912 may comprise a first elongated flexible tube 914 and a second elongated flexible tube 924.

As depicted in FIG. 9A, both elongated flexible tubes 914 and 924 are straightened out within the sheath. Specifically, the distal end of the first elongated flexible tube 914 and the distal end of the second elongated flexible tube 924 are both unfolded and maintain substantially straight against the wall of the sheath. The straight shape allows the elongated flexible tubes to be carried within a sheath having a smaller diameter. The distal ends of the tubes are biased (or prebent) such that they will curl into loops when extended out of the sheath.

As depicted in FIG. 9B, when the elongated flexible tubes 914 and 924 are extended out of the sheath 910, both distal ends of the tubes start to curl into their prebent/deployment shape (i.e., loops). As depicted in FIG. 9C, the distal end of the elongated flexible tube 914 curls into a loop portion 916 and the distal end of the second elongated flexible tube 924 curls into a loop portion 926. As discussed above with respect to FIG. 8, the loop portions are configured to partially unfold when the corresponding tubes are filled with a pressurized conductive fluid.

In some variations, the shaft portions above the loop portions of the elongated tubes may be biased such that they bend at an angle. As depicted in FIG. 9A, the shock wave device 912 may be advanced through the sheath 910 in a compressed configuration, where the shaft portions of the first and second elongated flexible tubes are generally aligned with the longitudinal axis of the sheath 910. In contrast, as depicted in FIG. 9C, extending the shock wave device 912 distally beyond the distal end of the sheath may allow the shaft portions 918 and 928 to assume their bent configuration, thereby expanding the shock wave device such that the first and second loop portions 916, 926 (deflated during delivery) contact the aortic valve wall.

As depicted in FIG. 9D, the expansion of the shock wave device may at least partially align the loop portions with the concave portions 903, 905 of the left and right cusps. As such, the loop portions 916 and 926 of the tubes are at least partially accommodated within the cusps of the heart valve.

Next, as depicted in FIG. 9E, one or both of the loop portions may be filled with a pressurized conductive fluid via the open proximal ends of the tubes. The fluid causes each of the loop portions 916 and 926 to partially unfold into curved portions 930 and 932, respectively. The curved portions 930 and 932 self-align within the concave portions of the cusps. In some variations, only one tube may be inflated at a time, or two tubes may be inflated simultaneously. Inflating fewer tubes than the number of cusps of a valve may allow blood to flow through at least a portion of the valve, which may help to reduce the risk of an ischemic incident during the procedure.

After a practitioner confirms that the curved portions of the tubes are located in the desired position, one or more of the electrode pairs in the tubes may be activated to produce shock waves. The mechanical force from the shock waves may propagate through the conductive fluid to apply a mechanical force on any calcified deposit along the surface of the cusps. In some methods, a single cusp of a valve may be treated at a time, while in other methods, two or more cusps of a valve may be treated simultaneously.

FIG. 10 depicts a prospective view of one variation of a self-expanding anchor that may be used with a shock wave device. As shown in FIG. 10, a shock wave device 1000 may comprise a single elongated flexible tube 1010, a sheath 1008, a shaft 1006, and an anchor 1007. The single elongated flexible tube 1010 is similar to the elongated flexible tube 610 in FIG. 6 and/or any of the tubes 914 and 924 in FIG. 9A. The components of the device 1000 are arranged to operate in a similar manner as described above with respect to the shock wave device 400 in FIG. 4. As depicted in FIG. 10, the central anchor 1007 may extend beyond the sealed distal end of the tube 1010 and can be configured to pass through the leaflets of the heart valves and into the ventricle to stabilize the position of the sheath.

The central anchor 1007 includes a plurality of arms 1012, 1014, 1016, 1018, 1022, and 1024. One or more markers may be disposed in a unique configuration on each of the plurality of arms such that the location of each arm can be identified during a procedure. The markers may include marker bands wrapped around the arms, markers glued on or crimped onto the arms, or a combination thereof. The configurations of marker(s) on two given arms may be different in marker count, marker shape, marker length, marker arrangement on the arm, or a combination thereof. In the depicted example, a first configuration corresponding to arm 1012 includes a series of four markers arranged in a linear fashion, whereas the second configuration corresponding to arm 1014 includes a single marker that is longer than any of four markers on the first arm 1012.

In some variations, the different marker configurations on the arms of the central anchor 1007 help a practitioner to identify the locations/positions/orientations of the arms and to navigate the elongated tube(s) of the shock wave device (e.g., the single elongated flexible tube 1010) from one cusp to another during a procedure. In an exemplary procedure, the shock wave device 1000 is introduced into a patient's vasculature and advanced within the vasculature such that the central anchor 1007 is placed into the ventricle. Specifically, the anchor 1007 may be pushed through the valve orifice, expanded, and then pulled up against the heart valve leaflets to help further engage or contact the shock wave electrode pairs with the leaflets and/or cusps. Based on the marker configurations, the locations of the arms are determined. In some variations, the locations of the arms may be determined based on fluoroscopy and/or ultrasound using the markers configurations. For example, upon identifying a configuration including a series of four markers of a certain length based on fluoroscopy, the practitioner can determine the location of the arm 1012.

Based on the locations of the arms determined based on the marker configurations, the tube 1010 is deployed and positioned such that the distal end of the tube (e.g., the loop portion) is at least partially accommodated with a first cusp of the heart valve. The first cusp of the heart valve may be in proximity to a particular arm of the central anchor. As such, the tube 1010 is positioned in proximity to the particular arm based on the determined location of the particular arm. In some variations, the tube 1010 is filled with a pressurized conductive fluid such that the loop portion partially unfolds into a less curved portion, as discussed above with respect to FIGS. 9A-D. After a practitioner confirms that the curved portion of the tube is located in the desired position, one or more of the electrode pairs in the tubes may be activated to produce shock waves to treat the calcified lesions. Efficacy of the treatment for the first cusp may be subsequently evaluated based on imaging techniques (e.g., fluoroscopy and/or ultrasound) and/or physiological parameters.

After treating the first cusp, the tube may be repositioned based on the determined locations of the arms of the central anchor such that the distal end of the tube is at least partially accommodated with a second cusp of the heart valve. Steps as described above are repeated such that the curved portion of the tube is located in the desired position, and the voltage source is activated to apply shock waves to treat the calcified lesions. It should be appreciated that the above-described method can be applied using any type of elongated flexible tube described herein.

FIG. 7 depicts a schematic view of another exemplary flexible tube 700 and an array of electrode pairs associated with a plurality of wires disposed within the flexible tube 700. As shown in FIG. 7, flexible tube 700 may comprise an elongated flexible tube 710 that includes a straight portion, instead of a horseshoe-shaped loop portion or a J-shaped loop portion. The straight portion may be located near the distal end of a sheath. In some variations, the elongated flexible tube 710 may comprise a fluid input end 312, a support wire 320, a first wire 340, a first interleaved wire portion 338, a second wire 336, a second interleaved wire portion 334, and a third wire 332. These components are similar to those described above in connection with FIG. 3A and are thus not repeatedly described.

In some variations, the distal end of the elongated flexible tube 710 (e.g., end 714) may be sealed such that the conducive fluid flows in and out through the fluid input end 312. Moreover, a wire associated with the electrode pair closest to the distal end of the tube is configured to extend at least from the sealed distal end of the tube to the open proximal end of the tube. As illustrated in FIG. 7, because the end 714 is sealed, a portion of the third wire 332 may be configured to return to the fluid input end 312 to electrically couple to a negative terminal of a voltage source such as a high voltage pulse generator 102. In some variations, the portion of the third wire 332 that returns to the fluid input end 312 may be configured to be positioned away from the electrode pairs of the interleaved wire portions (e.g., wire portions 334 and 338) such that it does not interfere with the shock wave generated by the electrode pairs. For example, the portion of the third wire 332 that returns to the fluid input end 312 may be configured to be positioned in the opposite side from the side of the arc-generating regions of the interleaved wire portion 338 and 334. In some variations, the elongated flexible tube 710 comprising a straight portion may be configured to be accommodated in a portion of a patient's body that has similar shape (e.g., the patient's knee). Configuring the tube to be similar to the portion of the patient's body to be treated increases the effectiveness of delivering the shock wave and therefore the treatment. In some variations, the elongated flexible tube 710 comprising a straight portion may have a smaller dimension (e.g., length) than the elongated flexible tube 310 comprising a horseshoe-shaped loop portion or the elongated flexible tube 610 comprising a J-shaped curved portion. Smaller dimension may enable the shock wave device to be advanced more easily within the vasculature. In some variations, a single elongated tube (e.g., tube 300, tube 610, tube 710) is carried within the sheath to so that a smaller sheath can be used. It is appreciated that a tube is not limited to the examples described herein and can have any desired shape.

FIG. 11A schematically depicts another variation of a shock wave device 1100 for the treatment of calcified lesions in a heart valve. The shock wave device 1100 may comprise an elongated flexible tube 1110. The elongated flexible tube 1110 may be carried by a sheath 1108. At least part of the elongated flexible tubes 1110 may be movably accommodated within the sheath 1108. As illustrated in FIG. 11A, the elongated flexible tube 1110 may be extended beyond the distal end of the sheath 1108 for treating calcified lesions in heart valves. In some variations, the sheath 1108 may be coupled to a proximal handle 1104. The sheath 1108 may be introduced into the vasculature and advanced in a retrograde direction (e.g., via a femoral artery) to a heart valve.

In some variations, the elongated flexible tube 1110 may comprise a fluid input end located near a proximal end of the sheath 1108. A fluid may be introduced via the fluid input end. For example, the fluid may be introduced to the elongated flexible tube 1110 by the fluid pump and fluid source 1106. The fluid pump and fluid source 1106 may fill the elongated flexible tube 1100 with a fluid such as saline or saline/contrast mixture. In some variations, the elongated flexible tube 1110 may have one fluid end, through which the fluid may be introduced to the tube and discharged from the tube.

In some variations, the elongated flexible tube 1100 has a loop portion 1130, which is configured to be at least partially accommodated within a cusp of the heart valve. In the depicted example, the shape of the loop portion may be set by the support wire 1160A and the elongated flexible tube 1110 may be configured to operate in a manner consistent with the method described with reference to FIGS. 9A-E.

One or more shock wave generators are positioned within the loop portion 1130. As depicted in FIG. 11A, the three shock wave generators 1126A-C include three optical fibers of different lengths. Each of the optical fibers is connected to the laser generator 1102. In some examples, each optical fiber is configured to generate shock waves at the distal end of the optical fiber in the fluid in response to laser pulses generated by the laser generator 1102 in a process called thermoelastic expansion. In some examples, an absorber substance is mixed into the fluid (e.g., saline), which is flushed into a part of the vasculature (e.g., artery), so that the laser is absorbed and shock waves are generated at the distal end of the optical fiber. Subsequently, the shock waves propagate from the distal end of the optical fiber through the vessel and to the tissue to be treated. Alternatively, the shock waves are generated at the interface of the target tissue due to pigment absorption. For examples, for excimer lasers, one mechanism for the lasers to act on tissue is via absorption and subsequent microablation. Because this type of lasers do not absorb well in certain fluids (e.g., saline), a part of the vasculature (e.g., artery) is flushed with the fluid (e.g., saline that is not mixed with any absorber substance) to clear out the blood. Subsequently, the laser (in the form of a pulse wave) is propagated through the fluid until the laser encounters pigmented tissue that can absorb energy from the laser. Generally, biological tissue that is calcified or diseased (e.g., vessel endothelium or calcified tissue) can absorb a significant amount of energy at the wavelengths of the lasers. Accordingly, the shock waves are generated at the pigmented tissue rather than at the distal end of the optical fiber, in accordance with some embodiments.

Laser absorption in the fluid leads to a primary pressure wave (shock wave) emitted from the absorption region. After a low fluence threshold, a vapor bubble is also formed. The growth and subsequent collapse of the vapor cavity lead to secondary pressure waves (shock waves). One of ordinary skill in the art would recognize that this process is distinct from the generation of shock waves in FIGS. 1A-C in some aspects. Specifically, the shock wave generation in FIGS. 1A-C is a result of electrohydraulic vapor expansion, which has a different initial process of current discharge and ionization. Nevertheless, in both processes, the shock wave generation ends in a very similar acoustic pressure result and cavitation bubble activity.

In some embodiments, as depicted in FIG. 11B, the elongated flexible tube include an optical fiber 1126D, which is configured to be slidable along the elongated flexible tube. By sliding the optical fiber, the distal end thereof can be positioned at various locations within the tube permitting shock waves to be generated at the desired locations. In one preferred approach, the fiber may be initially positioned so that the distal end of the fiber is close to the distal end of the tube. During the procedure, the fiber can be withdrawn (in the direction of arrow A) allowing shock waves to be generated at increasingly more proximal locations within the tube. This slidable configuration may allow a smaller elongated flexible tube and/or sheath to be used.

While this invention has been particularly shown and described with references to embodiments thereof, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and details may be made therein without departing from the scope of the invention. For all of the embodiments described above, the steps of the methods need not be performed sequentially. 

We claim:
 1. A device for generating shock waves to treat calcified lesions in the body of a patient comprising: a tubular member being fillable with a conductive liquid; a support member centrally positioned within the tubular member; a first insulated wire, with a first end of the first insulated wire being connectable to a power source, the second end of the first insulated wire being helically coiled around the support member; a second insulated wire, with a first end of the second insulated wire being helically coiled around the support member and interleaved with the second end of the first insulated wire, and with a region near the second end of the first wire and a region near the first end of the second wire having insulation removed to define a first electrode pair, and with the second end of the second insulated wire being helically coiled around the support member in a region spaced from the first electrode pair; and a third insulated wire, with a first end of the third insulated wire being helically coiled around the support member and interleaved with the second end of the second insulated wire, and with a region near the second end of the second wire and a region near the first end of the third wire having insulation removed to define a second electrode pair, and with the second end of the third insulated wire being connectable to a power source, said first and second electrode pairs being configured to generate shock waves when voltage pulses are applied to the wires by the power source.
 2. The device of claim 1 wherein the second end of the third insulated wire is helically coiled around the support member in a region spaced from the second electrode pair and further including a fourth insulated wire, with a first end of the fourth insulated wire being helically coiled around the support member and interleaved with the second end of the third insulated wire, and with a region near the second end of the third wire and a region near the first end of the fourth wire having insulation removed to define a third electrode pair, and with the second end of the fourth insulated wire being connectable to a power source, said first, second, and third electrode pairs being configured to generate shock waves when voltage pulses are applied to the wires by the power source.
 3. The device of claim 2 wherein the second end of the fourth wire includes a U-shaped bend allowing the second end of the fourth wire to return towards the first end of the first wire.
 4. The device of claim 1 wherein the tubular member has an open fluid receiving end and a sealed opposing end.
 5. The device of claim 1 wherein the tubular member has an open fluid receiving end and an open fluid discharge end.
 6. The device of claim 1 wherein for each electrode pair, one associated wire has a single region of removed insulation and the other associated wire has at least two regions of removed insulation to compensate for erosion of the insulation.
 7. The device of claim 1 wherein the tubular member has a J-shape when deployed for treatment.
 8. The device of claim 1 wherein the tubular member has a horseshoe shape when deployed for treatment.
 9. The device of claim 1 wherein the flexible tube is carried by a sheath for delivery to the treatment region.
 10. The device of claim 9 wherein the tubular member has a straight geometry when inside the sheath and a J-shaped geometry when outside the sheath.
 11. The device of claim 1 further comprising a plurality of spacers mounted within the tubular member to space the electrode pairs away from the inner wall of the tubular member.
 12. The device of claim 11 wherein the spacers are ring shaped.
 13. The device of claim 1 wherein the second end of the third wire includes a U-shaped bend allowing the second end of the third wire to return towards the first end of the first wire.
 14. A device for generating shock waves to treat calcified lesions in the body of a patient comprising: a tubular member being fillable with a conductive liquid; a support member centrally positioned within the tubular member; a first insulated wire, with a first end of the first insulated wire being connectable to a power source, the second end of the first insulated wire being helically coiled around the support member; a second insulated wire, with a first end of the second insulated wire being helically coiled around the support member and interleaved with the second end of the first insulated wire, and with a region near the second end of the first wire and a region near the first end of the second wire having insulation removed to define a first electrode pair, and with the second end of the second insulated wire being helically coiled around the support member in a region spaced from the first electrode pair; a third insulated wire, with a first end of the third insulated wire being helically coiled around the support member and interleaved with the second end of the second insulated wire, and with a region near the second end of the second wire and a region near the first end of the third wire having insulation removed to define a second electrode pair, and with the second end of the third insulated wire being connectable to a power source; and a power source comprising a pulsed voltage source generating voltage pulses having sufficient energy to cause an arc to be generated across the both the first and second electrode pairs, said arcs allowing current to flow in series though the first, second and third wires whereby shock waves are created at the first and second electrode pairs.
 15. The device of claim 14 wherein the second end of the third insulated wire is helically coiled around the support member in a region spaced from the second electrode pair and further including a fourth insulated wire, with a first end of the fourth insulated wire being helically coiled around the support member and interleaved with the second end of the third insulated wire, and with a region near the second end of the third wire and a region near the first end of the fourth wire having insulation removed to define a third electrode pair, and with the second end of the fourth insulated wire being connectable to a power source, wherein the voltage pulses from the power source have sufficient energy to cause an arc to be generated across each of the first, second and third electrode pairs, said arcs allowing current to flow in series though the first, second, third and fourth wires whereby shock waves are created at the first, second and third electrode pairs.
 16. The device of claim 15 wherein the second end of the fourth wire includes a U-shaped bend allowing the second end of the fourth wire to return towards the first end of the first wire.
 17. The device of claim 14 wherein the tubular member has an open fluid receiving end and a sealed opposing end.
 18. The device of claim 14 wherein for each electrode pair, one associated wire has a single region of removed insulation and the other associated wire has at least two regions of removed insulation to compensate for erosion of the insulation.
 19. The device of claim 14 wherein the tubular member has a J-shape when deployed for treatment.
 20. The device of claim 14 wherein the flexible tube is carried by a sheath for delivery to the treatment region.
 21. The device of claim 20 wherein the tubular member has a straight geometry when inside the sheath and a J-shaped geometry when outside the sheath.
 22. The device of claim 14 further comprising a plurality of ring shaped spacers mounted within the tubular member to space the electrode pairs away from the inner wall of the tubular member. 